BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — The State Attorney’s Office said Monday that it will seek the death penalty for a Brevard County couple who are facing murder and child abuse charges following the death of a 3-year-old boy.
Erica Dotson, 27, and Joshua Manns, 25, are facing charges of first-degree murder, aggravated child abuse, aggravated manslaughter and child abuse stemming from the death of Nance Jameson.
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According to investigators, the medical examiner ruled the child’s death a homicide, stating the child had suffered multiple inflicted injuries over time that ultimately resulted in death.
West Melbourne police said during the investigation, they discovered evidence that both Manns and Dotson physically abused the child, attempted to conceal the abuse, and neglected to seek immediate medical treatment for his injuries.
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In their notice, prosecutors described the murder as “especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel.”
Officials said Dotson and Manns will remain in custody with no bond at the Brevard County Jail.
